If you love seafood, this Classic Baked Oysters recipe is a must-try. It's simple yet elegant, perfect for a cozy dinner or entertaining guests. The combination of buttery, garlicky goodness with a hint of lemon will make these oysters a hit at any table.
Oysters: Fresh oysters are the star of this dish, offering a briny, oceanic flavor. Make sure they're fresh and properly shucked for the best results.
Butter: Softened butter forms the base of the topping, adding richness and helping bind the other ingredients.
Bread crumbs: They add a bit of crunch and texture to each bite.
Garlic: Provides an aromatic depth that pairs beautifully with the oysters.
Parsley: Fresh parsley adds a pop of color and a hint of herbaceous freshness.
Lemon juice: This brightens up the dish and cuts through the richness of the butter.
Salt and pepper: Essential for seasoning and enhancing the overall flavor.
Parmesan cheese: Adds a savory, umami touch that complements the oysters perfectly.
These baked oysters pair beautifully with a crisp white wine like a Sauvignon Blanc or a light, bubbly Prosecco. For a full meal, consider serving them alongside a simple green salad or a crusty baguette to soak up any leftover buttery juices.
Start by preheating your oven to 425°F (220°C). This will ensure it's hot enough to bake the oysters to perfection. While the oven is heating, shuck the oysters. This step can be a bit tricky if you're not used to it, so take your time and be careful. Place each oyster on a baking sheet. For extra stability, you can set them on a bed of rock salt.
In a mixing bowl, combine the softened butter, bread crumbs, minced garlic, chopped parsley, lemon juice, salt, and black pepper. Mix it well until it's all combined into a smooth paste. This buttery topping is what will give the oysters that irresistible flavor.
Now, spoon about a teaspoon of the butter mixture onto each oyster. Be generous but careful not to overwhelm the delicate oyster flavor. Once all oysters have their buttery topping, sprinkle the grated Parmesan cheese over each one.
Place the baking sheet in your preheated oven and bake for 10-12 minutes. You'll know they're done when the cheese is golden brown and bubbly. The aroma will be amazing!
Finally, serve the oysters immediately with lemon wedges on the side. The lemon wedges allow your guests to add a fresh squeeze of lemon juice just before eating, enhancing the flavors even more.
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